Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) President Hamzah Rahmat is calling on Air Asia to move its operations to the main terminal of Kota Kinabalu International Airport instead of staying put at Terminal 2.
Hamzah said “We understand that budget airline passengers are price sensitive and higher airport taxes can be a deterrent. But many would rather pay than endure the appalling conditions at the old terminal.”
“While most passengers choose to pay less and expect no-frills on board, fewer and fewer are prepared to put up with the inconveniences at this overcrowded terminal lacking basic facilities such as parking bays, clean toilets, air conditioning, check-in counters, luggage X-rays machines, immigration counters and baggage carousels.”
“Many passengers have missed their flights as they could not reach the airport on time when the narrow road leading to Terminal 2 was choked with traffic. Arriving passengers too had to wait anxiously and unreasonably long to retrieve their checked-in luggage.”
“We ought to realise that passengers’ expectations had been raised by better facilities at other low cost terminals, and they would get a rude shock upon their arrival at Kota Kinabalu.”
“The middle-class from China and India will be coming to our shores in bigger waves and Air Asia can provide the connectivity. But they would feel foolish if we make them cramp into Terminal 2 when the main terminal is underutilised.”
“Expectations had risen with rising incomes and lifestyles. Many people are eager to leave behind their past poverty and sufferings, and putting them through the same experience can backfire badly.”
“While we understand that Air Asia would relocate after issues with the authorities are resolved, we also believe that the airline could be magnanimous to end the sufferings of the passengers as it has already made its point by holding steadfast to its principle.”
“Some detractors may accuse Air Asia for trying to hold the country to ransom but the tourism industry regards the budget airline as being the greatest game changer for our nation and across the Asian region.”
“Also, Kota Kinabalu is strategically placed as it lies exactly at the midpoint between China and Australia. Air Asia X flying between these two countries is bound to be popular as many passengers would take advantage of a stopover at Kota Kinabalu.”
“It is better to leave old baggage behind and look forward to a new dawn. Air Asia has the talent, resources and resolve to take a quantum leap and lift Sabah tourism to greater heights,” Hamzah concluded.
